--- Pam Dykstra <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
> The grammar discussion has been fascinating – and
> almost
> overwhelming because so many valuable responses have
> been
> posted.   I am having a hard time keeping all the
> insights in
> mind.  As I struggle to sort it all out, I wonder if
> we could
> begin with what we want students to be able to do.
> This sounds,
> I know, embarrassingly simplistic, but it would give
> us a place
> to begin.  For me the question is: What do students
> need to know
> to write effectively?  Once we find common ground
> there, the next
> question might be: How do we teach that?  And here
> the question
> of what terminology we use will most likely emerge.
>  Can we also consider Susan Witt's suggestion (as I
> understood
> it): finding a variety of strategies -- rather than
> trying to
> find the one teaching method that does it right.
> Johanna has
> noted that California has state-imposed academic
> standards.
> California is not alone, and additional states will
> undoubtably
> have mandated standards as the demand for
> accountability
> continues.  If our work is to be relevant, we need
> to be as
> inclusive as possible.
>  Wishing you all a wonderful Thanksgiving.  I'll be
> out of touch
> for a few days, and look forward to meeting you all
> online next
> week.  Pam Dykstra
>

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